Police Force Seeks To Add Deputy Chief

NORTH CHICAGO — The North Chicago City Council is set to take a vote on Police Chief Elisha Irvin's request to add a second assistant police chief to the department roster.

Irvin earlier this year asked the council to approve splitting the current job of assistant police chief into two jobs, with one deputy chief to handle internal affairs and another to specialize in external affairs. Such a split, Irvin said, would enhance the busy department's efficiency for little cost.

By appointing a second number-two from within the ranks, the additional cost would be about $11,000 to $15,000, depending upon the difference between the appointee's current salary and the $70,799 salary paid to the assistant chief.

Some aldermen have expressed skepticism, noting that adding another layer of brass could be expensive and do little to enhance police presence on the street where it's actually needed. The city's 63 sworn officers respond to about 150 calls per day.

"This could make the department much, much more efficient at very minimal cost," North Chicago Mayor Jerry Johnson told the City Council during a committee meeting this week. "I think this could be a very good move for the North Chicago Police Department."

Irvin's plan also has received support from Assistant Police Chief Eugene Williams and Ald. Ernest Fisher, a former police chief.

Many police departments employ two deputy chiefs, including those in nearby Waukegan and Gurnee. The council is scheduled to vote on the proposal Monday.